Synonyms for

Autonomy

Verb / ɔ:ˈtɑ:nʌmi: / / ʌˈtɑ:nʌmi: / Another word for autonomy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The definition of autonomy is the right or condition of self-government.

Synonyms & similar words

liberty selfreliance selfdirection selfsufficiency self-government independence separation self-rule self-determination self-sufficiency self-reliance freedom liberty sovereignty independence self-governance self-mastery self-legislation self-direction self-containment self-support self-standing self-rule

Synonyms by register

Formal

self-governance independence sovereignty self-determination

Informal

freedom free rein say-so own way

Literary

liberty emancipation

Antonyms

dependence subordination servitude reliance submission control constraint

Common collocations

  • personal autonomy
  • grant autonomy
  • lose autonomy
  • achieve autonomy
  • sense of autonomy
  • financial autonomy
  • parental autonomy
  • regional autonomy

Word family

noun autonomy
adjective autonomous

Usage note

Autonomy refers to the right or condition of self-government. It is often used in contexts of political, personal, or organizational independence.

Example sentences

  1. The city is fighting for autonomy from the state government.
  2. The students were given autonomy to choose their own project topics.
  3. The company's new policy gives employees more autonomy in their work.
  4. The country gained autonomy from its colonizers after a long struggle.
  5. The school district is considering granting more autonomy to individual schools.

Quotes

  • True autonomy is not a matter of taking things into one's hands, but of giving oneself to Another who gives us our true self.
  • The first step towards autonomy is seeing that it is a necessary condition for the happiness and well-being of human beings.
  • Autonomy is not a luxury, it is a basic human need.

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